Bradford Regional Medical Center (BRMC) and Olean General Hospital (OGH), Kaleida Health facilities, are pleased to announce Kristyn Wilber, RN, an oncology nurse at the Barry Street Health Center in Olean, as the 2026 first-quarter Nightingale Award recipient. Wilber has been a nurse at OGH since 2018.
“It takes a special type of person to be an oncology nurse. Patients often say that coming to our office is their safe space. They feel welcomed, cared for and look forward to freely talking with our staff. Kristyn helps make all of this happen. She has a genuine compassion for all of our patients including their family members. She makes each patient feel special. She goes above and beyond to provide the patient with the best care possible. She educates patients naturally throughout sincere conversation,” said her nomination.
Her nomination continued, “Not only is she an exceptional nurse to our patients, but she plays a vital role in the daily flow of our oncology office. She’s professional, a leader and a nurse that any patient or staff member can come to for guidance. Kristyn’s work is driven by her sincerity and her genuine compassion. Kristyn is the true definition of what a nurse should be. Our patients, our office and our staff are truly blessed to have Kristyn as an oncology nurse, a co-worker and a friend.”
The Nightingale Award is the result of nominations from medical providers and other team members throughout BRMC and OGH. The prestigious award is presented quarterly to one nurse who provides exceptional patient care, excels in patient and family teaching, creates an environment of efficient, open communication with patients and serves as a role model for peers.
BRMC and OGH named the highly coveted nursing award after Florence Nightingale, who laid the groundwork for the philosophy and underpinnings of modern-day nursing. Throughout Florence Nightingale’s career, she displayed qualities such as integrity, nursing excellence, compassion and service.
Reflecting on her career, Wilber shared that her passion for nursing began at a young age.
“I graduated from Jamestown Community College in Olean in 2018 with my associate’s degree in nursing and have been with OGH ever since,” said Wilber. “I started on the second floor and also gained experience in sub-acute rehabilitation, which ultimately led me to my home in oncology at Barry Street.”
She added, “Being a nurse has shaped who I am today. The patients I’ve cared for and the colleagues I’ve grown alongside have influenced both my personal and professional journey. I truly look forward to coming to work each day to support my coworkers and our patients.”
Wilber emphasized the importance of connection in her role as an oncology nurse.
“I strive to walk alongside my patients and remind them they are not alone. Being a source of reassurance and strength during difficult times can mean everything. Nursing is not just about the medicine, it’s about the people. It’s about the conversations, the trust and even finding moments of joy during challenging times,” she said.
“While nursing can be emotionally and mentally demanding, it has helped me develop resilience, courage and compassion. I’ve spent nearly two years in oncology, and it has been the most rewarding decision of my career. I look forward to continuing to grow in this field, including pursuing my Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN) certification, and supporting the expansion of cancer care services in our community through Kaleida Health Cancer Care.”
Other nominees included: Laura Balcerzak, LPN; Carol Coppella, RN; Angela Goodwill, LPN; Samantha Gross, RN; Derek Hittle, RN; Morgen Kasprzyk, RN; Ann Kriner, RN; Denise Scholar-Schmader, RN; Taneasha Shaeper, BSN, RN; and Mary Sirline, RN.
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